Why
The cherry fruit itself is not toxic to dogs. However, cherry pits, stems and leaves contain compounds that release cyanide when chewed. A single swallowed pit is unlikely to poison a dog but can cause a blockage in small dogs.
Because it is hard to remove every pit, many veterinarians recommend other fruits instead. Maraschino and canned cherries are also full of sugar.
Risks to watch for
- Vomiting, constipation or straining after swallowing pits
- Signs of cyanide poisoning: dilated pupils, difficulty breathing, bright red gums
- Stomach upset from eating too much fruit
How to share safely
- Remove the pit and stem, and offer just a small piece of fresh flesh.
- Avoid maraschino cherries, cherry pie filling and canned cherries in syrup.
- If your dog eats many pits or shows breathing problems, contact a vet immediately.
How much?
One or two pitted cherries as an occasional treat.
My dog swallowed a cherry pit. What now?
Stay calm and work out how many pits were eaten and whether they were chewed. Most of the cyanide-producing compounds stay locked inside an intact pit. Crushing it releases them, so chewed pits are more of a concern than swallowed whole ones.
Call your vet if your dog is small, if it ate several pits, or if you are not sure. They may ask you to watch at home or to come in. Do not make your dog vomit unless the vet or poison control tells you to.
Over the next few days, watch for signs that a pit is stuck: repeated vomiting, refusing food, straining without passing stool, a tender belly or unusual tiredness. These need a vet visit the same day.
Is the cherry tree a bigger risk than the fruit?
For dogs with a yard, it can be. The ASPCA lists the cherry tree as toxic to dogs because its stems, leaves and seeds contain cyanogenic glycosides. Wilted leaves, such as those on branches brought down by a storm or pruning, can release more cyanide than fresh ones. Clear fallen branches and dropped fruit before your dog finds them.
Peaches, plums and apricots belong to the same plant family. Their pits carry the same compounds and are large enough to block a dog's intestine.
Maraschino, dried or chocolate-covered cherries?
Maraschino cherries are usually pitted, but they are soaked in syrup and colored. One that falls off a cake is not an emergency. They are simply not a useful treat.
Dried cherries have concentrated sugar and are often sold in mixes with raisins, which can cause kidney failure in dogs. Chocolate-covered cherries add chocolate. If your dog got into either, treat it as a raisin or chocolate problem and call your vet.
Common questions
Are cherries good for dogs?
Only in limited ways. The cherry fruit itself is not toxic to dogs. However, cherry pits, stems and leaves contain compounds that release cyanide when chewed.
Are cherries bad for dogs?
It can be. Risks to watch for: vomiting, constipation or straining after swallowing pits; signs of cyanide poisoning: dilated pupils, difficulty breathing, bright red gums.
Are dogs allowed to have cherries?
Only in small amounts and the right form. Remove the pit and stem, and offer just a small piece of fresh flesh.
Sources
Topic references
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Toxic and Non-Toxic Plant List – Dogs.
General care and safety
If your dog has eaten something toxic, contact your veterinarian or an emergency animal hospital right away. Do not wait for symptoms. In the US you can also call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 or the Pet Poison Helpline at (855) 764-7661 (fees may apply).